MP welcomes pause to West Lothian school pool plans after thousands raise concerns
Plans by West Lothian Leisure, known as Xcite, to relocate swimming provision at West Lothian schools have been paused following intervention from local MP Gregor Poynton.
The decision follows significant local concern about the proposals, with more than 7,000 people signing a local petition calling for the existing arrangements for swimming lessons to be maintained.
Gregor Poynton MP raised the issue with Xcite after being contacted by a number of constituents concerned about the proposed changes and the potential impact on local swimming provision, clubs, families and children.
He subsequently requested a meeting with Xcite to discuss the proposals and the concerns raised with him.
Xcite has now confirmed that it has paused the current school pool relocation proposals, following two stages of consultation with affected swimming clubs and private providers.
In a letter to Mr Poynton, Xcite Chief Executive Ben Lamb said the organisation had decided that proceeding with the proposals in their current form was not the right approach.
Xcite will instead establish working groups with Scottish Swimming-affiliated clubs and private swim providers to explore an alternative approach to making better use of pool capacity across West Lothian.
Gregor Poynton MP said:
“I’m pleased that Xcite has listened to the concerns raised by constituents, swimming clubs and providers and has decided to pause these proposals.
“A number of constituents contacted me because they were worried about what these changes could mean for swimming provision locally, and I was keen to make sure those concerns were properly heard.
“The strength of feeling locally has also been clear, with more than 7,000 people signing a petition calling for the existing arrangements to be protected.
“This is a positive step, but the job isn’t finished. We need to make sure that any future plans protect access to swimming, support our local clubs and work for families and providers across West Lothian.
“I had already requested a meeting with Xcite and I will still be taking that meeting. I want to hear more about the alternative approach they are now developing and make sure the concerns raised with me are properly reflected in whatever comes next.”
The proposals had raised concerns among local swimming providers and community groups, many of whom have delivered swimming lessons from school pool venues for more than 15 years.
They have highlighted the importance of familiar venues, established instructors and consistent provision, particularly for younger children and those who can benefit from predictable and supportive environments.
Mr Poynton added:
“Swimming is an essential life skill, not simply a recreational activity, and it is important that children across West Lothian have the opportunity to learn to swim in safe, accessible and supportive environments.
“I want to thank everyone who took the time to contact me and set out their concerns. I’ll continue to keep a close eye on this and make sure the voices of local families and swimmers are heard as Xcite develops its plans.”
The meeting between Gregor Poynton MP and Xcite is expected to take place next month.